St. George's Day was greatly impacted by the coronavirus pandemic this Thursday (23) in Rio's churches. On this holiday, instead of crowded parishes, masses will be virtual.
This had never happened before in history. The church, located in the North Zone, called Matriz de Quintino, normally receives hundreds of faithful every year. The morning was empty. Few faithful went to the parish to light candles and pray, but they did so outside.
Dirceu Rigo, the priest responsible for regular services, said there will be a special virtual blessing for the health of the faithful.
He said that this year, Saint George will bless devotees in their homes. In an interview with G1, he stated:
Make your homes the Church of Saint George. This disease is very dangerous. Don't leave your homes; let's demonstrate our devotion without going out into the streets. The most precious gift God gave us is life. So, let's cherish this gift. Those who love care, and Saint George will care for everyone in their homes.
St. George's Day – what is its importance?
The great martyr, as he is commonly known, was brutally murdered in the year 303. As with every martyr, many stories have been told about him. However, it is worth remembering that there is little historical evidence, yet enough to recognize that he truly existed, and that (for devotees) it is worthwhile to ask for his intercession and imitate him as an example of conduct.
It is known that he belonged to a group of soldiers under the Roman Emperor Diocletian, who persecuted Christians. George then renounced everything to live solely under the command of our Lord and live the Holy Gospel.
Saint George did not want to be in the service of tyrannical governments
He loved love, truth, and humility... He was persecuted, imprisoned, and threatened. All of this was intended to make him renounce his devotion to Jesus Christ. Saint George ultimately renounced his own life and was martyred.
It is said that in a place there lived a dragon that oppressed a people. Sometimes animals were given to this dragon, and sometimes young people. And the king's daughter was chosen by lot. Suddenly, George, a Christian, appeared, took pity on him and went to confront the dragon. He made the sign of the cross and, fighting the dragon, defeated it with a spear. He received many goods as a reward, which he distributed to the poor.
Isolation measures kept the faithful away.
Due to safety measures requiring social distancing, in addition to the church being closed, the surrounding streets – where stalls selling images and souvenirs of Saint George are set up – will be empty.
The traditional schedule will be maintained: a 5:00 a.m. reveille, with clarinet and bell sounds, and a small fireworks display. Inside the church, only the priest and assistants will be present to celebrate the 5:00 a.m., 10:00 a.m., 3:00 p.m., and 6:00 p.m. Masses, which will be broadcast on social media, will be celebrated exclusively by the priest and assistants.
Source: CNBB